In our previous article, we talked about working aboard a private jet, emphasizing how comfort and privacy make flying an extension of the office. But to work during the flight and be truly productive, you need one key resource: a reliable Internet connection. In this article we take a detailed look at how Wi-Fi works on private jets, what it costs, what technologies are available, and what to expect in terms of performance.
How does Wi-Fi Internet connection work on private jets?
Surfing the Internet at an altitude of 12,000 meters is now a necessity for many travelers, especially in the world of private flights.
Onboard Wi-Fi not only allows you to work uninterrupted, but also to stay in touch with your team, access cloud files, or simply relax with a streaming movie. But how does Wi-Fi on board private jets actually work?
Available technologies are based on two main systems:
Air-To-Ground (ATG) Connection.
It uses a ground-based tower network, similar to that of cell phones. It is available only when the plane flies over land and at relatively low altitudes. Air-To-Ground connection provides internet at moderate speeds (about 1-3 Mbps) and is an economical solution, but it has geographic limitations: it does not work, for example, during flights over oceans or in isolated areas without coverage.
Satellite Connection (Ka-band, Ku-band, L-band)
This technology is based on geostationary satellites that provide global coverage, including intercontinental flights and ocean crossings.
- The Ka-band connection is currentlythe fastest, with performance that can reach 20-30 Mbps, making it ideal for streaming and video conferencing.
- Ku-band offers good speed and high reliability.
- L-band, on the other hand, is the slowest Internet connection, suitable only for light activities such as sending emails or using messaging apps.
Major providers of onboard Internet connectivity include:
- Gogo Business Aviation, known for its ATG systems, which are very popular in North America;
- Viasat, specializing in high-speed (mainly Ka-band) satellite connections;
- Inmarsat Jet ConneX, one of the leading global suppliers with excellent performance on intercontinental routes;
- Honeywell JetWave, which provides systems compatible with high-capacity satellite networks such as Inmarsat Global Xpress.
Want to know which private jets offer the best in-flight Internet connectivity? We will explore the most connected planes in the sky in detail shortly.
Which private jets offer better in-flight Wi-Fi?
Today, most mid-range and high-end private jets are equipped with Wi-Fi Internet connection systems, offering the possible to work, communicate or entertain during flight. However, not all aircraft offer the same performance: connectivity technologies vary by model, flight length, and customer needs.
Light jets, such as theHondaJet or Phenom 100, can offer optional Wi-Fi connections, often based on Air-To-Ground networks for regional flights.
Midsize jets, such as the Citation Latitude or the Embraer Praetor 500, are generally equipped with more advanced systems, including satellite, that can also support video conferencing and streaming.
Finally, private jets such as the Gulfstream G650, Bombardier Global 7500, or Dassault Falcon 8X, offer the best technologies available on the market, with very high-speed (Ka-band) satellite Internet connections and full Wi-Fi coverage.
During the rental phase, PrivateJetfinder offers the ability to customize the connectivity level of private jets,with tailored data plans even for limited periods only. Before booking an aircraft, it is advisable to check what type of network is available on the selected model and which provider is used.
Why Wi-Fi on private jets is value-added
In the world of private jets, Wi-Fi is no longer just an optional extra-it has become an essential service for those who choose maximum comfort and productivity even in the clouds.
1) Uninterrupted productivity
For those flying for business, Wi-Fi Internet access aboard private jets allows them to:
- Responding to important emails.
- Participate in video conferences.
- Access files and cloud platforms in real time.
- Coordinate with teams and clients without interruption.
2) Entertainment at the click of a button
High-speed Wi-Fi is not only for working, but also for relaxing during the flight. More and more passengers are using the connection to:
- Watch streaming movies and TV series (Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+).
- Playing online.
- Listening to streaming music or podcasts.
- Navigate freely on social media.
On many private jets, Wi-Fi allows multiple simultaneous Internet connections for families and work groups, so each passenger can use their own device without slowing down.
Cybersecurity and privacy in flight
Private jets that implement secure Wi-Fi Internet connections with advanced encryption and dedicated firewalls are ideal for:
- Managers handling confidential data.
- Public personalities.
- Cybersecurity-sensitive customers.
In some cases, private VPNs can also be configured, providing an additional level of confidentiality.
How much does Wi-Fi on board private jets cost?
Wi-Fi on private jets is an increasingly popular service, but it is not automatically included and can incur high costs, especially if high-speed internet and global coverage is chosen.
On what do the costs depend?
- Type of technology:
Air-To-Ground (ATG) connections are cheaper, but work only over land.
Satellite connections (Ka-band, Ku-band, L-band) offer coverage everywhere, but at a higher price. - Flight duration and route:
A short flight over national territory may cost little, while a transoceanic flight involves more intensive and expensive use of satellites. - Data consumption:
Generally you can choose between flat rates and pay-as-you-go charges, in the latter case streaming, video calls and VPNs obviously carry a higher cost than simple email or messaging. - Provider and package chosen:
Each provider (Gogo, Viasat, Inmarsat, Honeywell) offers different plans: flat rate, megabyte consumption, or unlimited premium.
Indicative price ranges
- ATG connection (regional flights): €300 to €800 per flight
- L-band satellite connection (basic): €500 to €1,500
- High-speed satellite connection (Ka/Ku-band): also €3,000-5,000 or more, for long flights with intensive use
Onboard Wi-Fi: which solution is right for you?
Here are some practical tips for hiring the ideal private jet and choosing the right configuration based on your digital needs:
1) Contact PrivateJetFinder and ask about Wi.Fi internet connection.
- Some jets offer included Wi-Fi plans, others require additional charges.
- Ask which providers are installed (Viasat, Gogo, Inmarsat…).
2) Evaluate the route
- If flying over the ocean or to remote areas, choose private jets equipped with Ka-band satellite connection.
- If you are flying overland and on short routes, an ATG connection may suffice.
3) Consider the number of passengers
- With more users connected via Wi-Fi, more bandwidth is needed.
- Check if the jet supports multiple devices simultaneously.
4) Check the final destination
- Some geographical areas (such as parts of Africa or the Pacific) may have limited coverage. In these cases, a jet with hybrid Internet connection or dual systems is recommended.
Click here to learn about the most popular destinations on PrivateJetFinder
Contact PrivateJetFinder for your customized private flight
With PrivateJetFinder, every private flight is tailor-made, including Wi-Fi connectivity. If you want to know which planes offer the best connectivity, which providers cover the routes you are interested in, and want ìto receive a personalized quote, we are the ideal partner.
Contact us for:
- Discover private jets with Wi-Fi connections suited to your business, entertainment or privacy needs
- Receive a quick, transparent offer with clear costs and including extra services
- Personalize your flight with:
- Gourmet catering upon request (including vegetarian, halal, kosher or gluten-free menus)
- Private transfers to/from the airport by luxury car or helicopter
- Services for pets, sports equipment or musical instruments
- Total discretion for VIPs and public figures
- Dedicated assistance H24
Contact our team for more information and trust PrivateJetFinder for a luxurious and complete flight experience that lives up to your expectations.
If you liked this article, you might also like to read our post Working on private jets: the new frontier of luxury business flights
